Join the Conversation

Police: Free Property Tracking Tool is Easy, Secure

The Greensboro Police Department is urging families to take advantage of a free, secure online database that can help police track down property, if it is ever stolen.
WFMY News 2

Meghann Mollerus, WFMY 9:25 a.m. EST February 19, 2014

The Greensboro Police Department is urging everyone to take advantage of a free online database called ReportIt, which has been credited with helping recover hundreds of stolen items each year.(Photo: WFMY News 2)

GREENSBORO, N.C. -- The Greensboro Police Department urges families who live in the Triad to take advantage of a free, online database called Leads Online ReportIt--used by more than 4,000 law enforcement agencies nationwide and credited with helping police recover thousands of stolen items.

Greensboro police detective Sgt. T.K. Brown addressed viewer concerns about database safety. He said though the website asks for detailed descriptions, serial numbers and even photos, it contains no information that could not be found elsewhere online. The site does not ask for a credit card number. Information is password protected and is accessed via a Secure Socket Layer (SSL) network connection, similar to high-level security measures used by government agencies and financial institutions.

Brown said details provided by consumers in their ReportIt lists have helped pawn shops work in conjunction with the police departments to detect and return stolen items. Just this week, police were able to use ReportIt information to recover a stolen diamond wedding ring and leaf blower.

Brown noted photos and receipts of items, which also can be uploaded into the database, are extremely helpful in allowing officers to identify personalized items, like jewelry.

Each ReportIt account can store up to 100 items, categorized by a variety of options (jewelry, electronics, machinery, lawn equipment, clothing, etc.). Anyone with computer access can create a ReportIt account for free. For those who do not have computers, Brown suggested they make a list of items and activate/fill in an account using a library computer. He also said officers at the Greensboro Police Department can assist in creating accounts, as well.